"The European conference in Kiev, Ukraine had four specific goals: First, to encourage the participants from almost 20 European countries to reflect on how new technologies, including Facebook and Twitter, challenges and changes the daily work of a journalist, and to consider how these challenges also shapes values and ethics in our societies. The German journalists Jochen Mai and Markus Spieker gave thought-provoking introductions on these subjects.

Secondly, we wanted to give the participants a better understanding of the complex media and religious life in Ukraine both via a speech by Anatolij Babinskyij as well as visits to the Chernobyl Museum and Pechersk Lavra. This mix of social activities and serious discussions stimulated to a more personal reflection from the participants as they were able to talk with other Ukrainian journalists about their experiences.

Thirdly, we set aside several hours for the participants to contribute with reflections on their culture and work environment and open up for comments from the others. This session stimulated to further conversations and was highly appreciated by the participants, and I hope the conference will have long term effects with a closer relationship between journalists working across Europe.

Fourthly, we had also invited the board of The Media Project to meet prior to the conference and also contribute on key issues like how press freedom is challenged by the rise of new blasphemy laws worldwide by Dr Paul Marshall. One of our Indian board members, Jennifer Arul from NDTV inspired many with her frank presentation of how challenging it can be to cover poverty in a way respectful of human dignity and value. The input from international board members (also from Peru and Nigeria) was also mentioned by participants as a special treat during the conference.

A personal reflection at the end: I was impressed and encouraged with the way several of the participants expressed how this conference had a special impact on their lives and helped them put into words what their values and faith means to them as journalists, and how conversations and new friends during the days in Kiev gave new encouragements in their lives".

Arne H Fjeldstad,The Media Project (CEO).